Friday Update

As another week draws to a close I am anticipating that many of you, like me, will be left wondering ‘what next’ and allowing yourself to think that this will never end? With the unveiling of the governments new tiered system of UK restrictions causing further confusion and frustration, we must continue to prepare for uncertainty and upheaval. Whatever happens next I feel that we as a business are prepared and ready to respond, and our COVID-19 taskforce established back in March will continue to closely monitor the situation so that we can readily adapt to the ever-changing parameters and I do hope this provides you all with some reassurance and comfort. Since lockdown we have worked through an incredibly challenging period which has tested us all beyond compare. Our sense of urgency to deliver has been heightened, and expectations increased to ensure we can succeed and I am certain we will continue to emerge stronger and fuelled with enthusiasm and optimism for the future.

As both my and Nicks message to all yesterday will undoubtedly highlight, the global pandemic we continue to face is far from over, and the stark reality of that brought closer to home this week in experiencing the virus first-hand. Whilst I always remain positive, the forthcoming coming seasons are evidently against us as we prepare ourselves for the colder months ahead which will potentially exacerbate the situation (aside of the challenges the colder, darker months throw at us in construction anyhow). With the updated ‘Safe Working Guidelines’ issued to remind you all of the importance of simple and yet highly effective measures such as HANDS – FACE – SPACE, alongside the protocol for confirmed cases I hope providing clear guidance should we unfortunately experience further cases, I trust you will feel confident and safe in continuing your day-to-day routines and activities.

Alongside the information issued we have prepared the attached simple self-diagnostic flow chart depicting potential scenarios, which I hope should be straightforward to follow and allow you to readily determine whether you or any member of your team should self-isolate and/or be tested if you do encounter contact with a confirmed case of the Coronavirus within your family network or social circles. If you have any questions or concerns please raise these with your Line Manager or one of the COVID-19 taskforce.

Away from COVID, last Saturday 10th October marked national Mental Health Awareness Day which endeavours to raise awareness and breakdown the stigma and pre-judgement associated with mental ill health and I consider it incredibly well-timed that this week 11 members of Team Jenner, portraying an optimal range of representatives from across the business, have undertaken training to become certified Mental Health First Aiders. These First Aiders will be in place to offer comfort and support in challenging times or a personal crisis, and remind you all that it is ok to talk about how you feel, and information on how to reach out in confidence to those now trained in this role (as pictured below proudly displaying their certificates) will be made available in the coming weeks. Good mental health is every bit as important as good physical health in contributing to overall wellbeing, and is why we have proactively addressed our business responsibility in this area, as we strive to establish a better workplace culture and breakdown the perceived barriers. Considering the alarming statistics that show 2 people from the construction industry commit suicide every single day in the UK this is certainly something that cannot and should not be ignored, and the wellbeing of all our people remains our utmost priority.

Taking a look at project progress, it is a pleasure to see the advancement of Ivy Court Surgery, as illustrated in the drone footage below, which will provide enhanced medical facilities within the heart of Tenterden on its completion early next year. Andy West has worked tirelessly to push the project forwards knowing its importance to the community through delivery of modernised primary care provision, but has ensured safety is never compromised receiving an excellent health and safety audit this month. Great work Andy and all of the team involved.

Continuing a look at healthcare provision, Tonbridge Medical Centre is also storming ahead much to the satisfaction of our client Assura, and I am certain to the relief of the local GPs in the same way as Ivy Court above, who will soon occupy the modern new centre allowing them to vacate their existing premises which are no longer fit for purpose. Dave Tingley and team are working hard to push the building forwards which is now in the final stages for completion this Autumn, and as pictured below:

Following my previous plea for support of the Folkestone Town Sprucers we have now rallied a good sized team to support a future beach clean/litter pick with dates yet to be announced, but there is still time to put your name forward with promise of a bacon roll and coffee in return for your efforts. I do feel you will find this initiative most rewarding, and will continue to enhance our excellent reputation as a considerate contractor within the town.

Once again, in light of occurrences this week I continue to urge you all to remain calm whilst reassessing your actions within the workplace to eradicate any complacency that may have subconsciously crept into your daily routine, to ensure we can all continue to work in a safe and confident manner. Keeping yourself and your colleagues safe is a moral obligation and we must all take full responsibility for our actions and the part we play in fighting the ongoing pandemic

I do wish you all a wonderful weekend, hopefully finding time to relax particularly ahead of next weeks start to the half-term break for Schools, and I remain optimistic that a secondary ‘circuit breaker’ lockdown is not imposed on us.

Please do continue to stay safe and well.

Jenner COVID19 Diagnostic Flow Chart.pdf

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